The 5 Most Popular Phrases to Describe Parties

by | Last updated Dec 29, 2023 | English Learning

Become the center of attention at gatherings by mastering these English idioms that describe parties and celebrations.

If you’re learning English online, you’re likely aware that incorporating phrases and idioms is an effective way to sound like a native speaker. This article will elucidate some of the most prevalent English phrases and idioms associated with parties.

What is your English level?

Find out your A1 A2 B1 B2 C1 C2 level of English with our online test and receive your English certificate.

Phrases and Vocabulary for Celebrations

Before delving into the idioms, let’s familiarize ourselves with the vocabulary. Here are typical questions, words, and phrases in English related to partying.

 

Words & phrases to describe what to do at a party

  •         Chat with friends
  •         Play party games
  •         Swim in the pool
  •         Flirt
  •         Attend parties
  •         Dance all night long
  •         Have a couple of drinks
  •         Socialize (meet new people)
  •         Have fun

Words & phrases to describe the music at a party

  •         Right up my alley
  •         It was too relaxing
  •         It was upbeat/rocking
  •         It was nice

Phrases to describe the atmosphere at the party

 

  •         It was laid back (chill)
  •         It was boring
  •         It was electrifying/thrilling
  •         It was so wild/crazy

 

Words and phrases to describe the décor at a party

  •         Pretty cool
  •         Funky
  •         A bit tacky
  •         Themed

 

5 English Party Idioms

In addition to the phrases mentioned earlier, here are some idioms we can employ to depict parties:

1. Have a whale of a time

This expression signifies “having an excellent time and thoroughly enjoying oneself.”

For example, We had a whale of a time at Claire’s birthday party.

 

2. The life of the party

This idiom is utilized to characterize an individual who is the most vibrant or entertaining person at a party.

For example, He’s always been the life of the party.

 

Are you C1 Advanced English?

Get your C1 Advanced English certificate now!

c1 advanced english certificate 1 1

Add your certificate to your resume

⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐

3. Throw a party

This signifies the act of arranging, coordinating, and hosting a party.

For example, Kate and Alex are throwing a party next Sunday.

4. Billy-no-mates / Norma no-mates

This expression is employed to portray an individual, be it a man referred to as “Billy” or a woman named “Norma,” who has a limited or nonexistent circle of friends. It’s worth noting that this idiom is specific to British slang and is not used in America.

For example, Matt didn’t want to look like Billy-no-mates, so he took Andrew with him.

5. A social butterfly

The final idiom in our compilation is employed to characterize a sociable individual who is extroverted, possesses a substantial number of friends, and is consistently participating in parties and other social gatherings.

For example, David is a bit of a social butterfly.

“At every party, there are two kinds of people — those who want to go home and those who don’t. The trouble is, they are usually married to each other.” – Ann Landers

 

party

Examining the aforementioned phrases can initiate your journey towards fluency (and socializing), but to reach that level, you’ll likely require more interaction and hands-on experience.

What is your English level?

Find out your A1 A2 B1 B2 C1 C2 level of English with our online test and receive your English certificate.

Nilay Ozdemir

I am Nilay, an experienced English Language Assessment Director at the International English Test, where I have been working full-time since February 2020. I specialize in helping people worldwide validate their English proficiency through comprehensive assessments and certifications.

Before joining the International English Test, I worked as a self-employed English Language Assessment Consultant from January 2015 to December 2019. During this time, I assisted companies and individuals in improving their language skills, helping them achieve their academic and professional goals.

I hold a degree in Engineering and have also studied at Shafston International College in Australia. My educational background has equipped me with the tools to make a meaningful impact in the field of English language learning. Additionally, I enjoy sharing my expertise through articles that explore effective teaching methods and language assessment strategies, contributing to the International English Test and the broader assessment community.

Related Posts